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FAIRBANKS—The University of Alaska Board of Regents unanimously adopted the FY18 capital budget appropriation for facility maintenance projects at a special meeting yesterday, bringing the FY18 budget process to a close. The university’s total FY18 facility maintenance investment is $45.6 million -- $5 million from the capital budget and $40.6 million allocated from the university’s operating budget.

The board has repeatedly emphasized the importance of reducing the deferred maintenance backlog, and this year requested $50 million from the Legislature in an effort to address nearly $1 billion in deferred maintenance needs. UA President Jim Johnsen expressed appreciation for the funding, but described the $5 million capital appropriation as disappointing.

“Over the last several years, we have not had capital budgets [from the state] adequate for deferred maintenance. I understand that the state is in a tough spot, but it a disappointment given the great needs that we have and the commitment that the regents have made to this important priority. With the board’s leadership, we have continued to make investments and address our backlog,” Johnsen said.

The University of Alaska owns and maintains more than 400 buildings around the state, totaling 7.7 million gross square feet. The average age of UA’s facilities is 31.9 years. The deferred maintenance investment will be used to address critical projects across the state.

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For more information, contact Roberta Graham, associate vice president of public affairs at 907-360-2416 (cell).